Print pointers: Digital vs. offset?

Advancements in printing technology mean more and more options are becoming available to your business. But with options come choices: how to choose which technology will work best for your job?

Digital printing offers faster turnaround times, lower costs (for low-volume jobs) and more accurate proofs of the actual printed piece. You can also use variable data in digital printing jobs—meaning you can customize a set of letters, for example, using different names and addresses—which makes it especially attractive to direct-mail marketers.

Offset (traditional) printing provides higher image quality, the choice of larger sheet sizes and more flexibility with printing surfaces. For high-volume print jobs, it’s more economical to use offset printing. For specialized colours and finishes (Pantone, metallic, etc.), offset is also your best bet.

Quantity and turnaround time are usually the key factors in any printing decision, but it’s useful to keep the above in mind too.